The Best Long Weekend Trips From Paris

Living in Paris and eager to explore more of France? You have to check out the Paris Teachers Club guide to the best weekend trips from Paris!

France is the world’s most visited country, and few destinations offer the sheer variety of unique landscapes, locations and experiences that France does. It is a simply magnificent country! 

Living in Paris is a daily adventure, but when the energy of the city gets too much and you’re looking for the perfect mini break, there’s no shortage of weekend trips from Paris to tick off your bucket list. 

From the mountains of the Alpine regions to the French Riviera, the coastline of France’s north to the lavender fields and vineyards of the south, we have compiled the ultimate guide to the 12 best long weekend trips from Paris. Local food recommendations included!

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1. Bordeaux 

Where it is: Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Southwestern France. 

Distance from Paris to Bordeaux: 6 hour drive / 3 hour train / 1 hour flight. 

A classic Bordeaux meal to try: Cuisse de canard (and a local Bordeaux wine of course!) 

Famous for its eponymous wine range, Bordeaux is a must visit French city that is the ideal weekend trip from Paris. The ancient riverside city of Bordeaux is a fascinating spot, with no shortage of sights and experiences to fill a few days here. 

Its gothic cathedral is a Bordeaux centrepiece, and don’t miss the Place de la Bourse with its unique water mirror. You can also see a show at the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, or enjoy some Bordeaux fare at one of the many local restaurants. 

Beyond the city limits. Bordeaux is a wine lovers paradise, home to some of the world’s best vineyards. You can even visit many of these châteaux and sample their wares for yourself! In the warmer months, this region is as green as far as the eye can see, and a beautiful area to explore. 

Learn more about Bordeaux: https://france.fr/bordeaux

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2. Annecy 

Where it is: Haute-Savoie, Southeastern France.  

Distance from Paris to Annecy: 6 hour drive / 4 hour train / 1 hour flight (to Geneva, Switzerland).

A local Annecy dish: Tartiflette. 

Nestled on a serene lake that bears its name, Annecy is a picturesque alpine location at the junction of France, Switzerland and Italy in France’s southeast. Annecy truly is a sight for sore eyes after life in the fast lane in Paris. 

The medieval town of Annecy is a dreamy, walkable destination, sprinkled with cobblestone streets, colourful buildings connected by footbridges and delightful eateries dotting its many canals in the Old Town. Many call Annecy the “Venice of the Alps” – and for good reason! 

Exploring the region beyond Annecy is a joy in any weather, but in the warmer months when the sun is shining, the tree-lined alpine roads give way to rolling green hills and Lake Annecy is a hive of activity, there’s nowhere like it. There are always water sports happening on the lake, and plenty of sandy beaches along its shores to laze in the sun or take a dip. In winter, the region is a snow-capped wonderland, with ample opportunity for skiing, snowshoeing and après ski cocktails! 

Learn more about Annecy: https://lac-annecy.com

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3. Nice 

Where it is: French Riviera, Southeastern France. 

Distance from Paris to Nice: 9 hour drive / 6 hour train / 1.5 hour flight.

A local dish to order in Nice: Salade niçoise. 

A jewel in the crown of the French Riviera, Nice is the place to be – especially in the warmer months when the city’s beaches are full of sun worshippers and the famous Nice promenade is buzzing with activity. Nice has something for every style of traveller and makes for a memorable weekend trip from Paris.

There’s a wide range of fascinating museums to check out, like the Musée Matisse (the famous artist called Nice home), a historic Old Town and you can’t miss a trip up Castle Hill to enjoy the sweeping Mediterranean views. 

Nice is a chic location on the Côte d’Azur that has often been associated with luxury and old world glamour, but there is a range of accommodation and experiences on offer to suit any budget. The city is also a great base to explore the rest of this region from, with the Riviera hotspots of Cannes and St Tropez both just an hour or two away. 

Learn more about Nice: https://www.explorenicecotedazur.com

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4. Lyon 

Where it is: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, East-Central France.  

Distance from Paris to Lyon: 5 hour drive / 2 hour train / 1 hour flight. 

A culinary delicacy from Lyon: Rosette de Lyon.

Lyon is often overlooked as a weekend trip from Paris, but we couldn’t recommend taking the time to visit this gem of a city more! The ancient city of half a million sits on the Rhône River in the eastern portion of central France, and every corner of Lyon promises a glimpse back in time over thousands of years of history. 

The entire city of Lyon is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can experience its past by exploring the cobblestone streets of its Old Town, taking the historic funicular up Fourvière Hill for jaw-dropping views across the city, discovering Lyon Cathedral or exploring La Croix-Rousse, the neighbourhood that was the heart of silk production – once the main export of this incredible city. 

Lyon is now a popular university city, and its buzzing nightlife, great shopping and superb range of restaurants and bars reflect the perfect blend between the old Lyon and the new. 

Learn more about Lyon: https://lyon-france.com

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5. Strasbourg 

Where it is: Grand Est / Alsace, Northeastern France.  

Distance from Paris to Strasbourg: 5 hour drive / 2 hour train / 4 hour flight (with 1 stop). 

What to eat in Strasbourg: Baeckeoffe. 

Picture perfect Strasbourg is a fantastic weekend trip from Paris where you will leave part of your heart – we’re sure of it! Located in the northeast of France right near the border of Germany, Strasbourg is the perfect fusion of French and German influence and makes for a unique weekend trip from Paris.

Often called “The European Capital” due to European Parliament being located here, Strasbourg has so much to offer visitors. The medieval city dates back over 2000 years and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, with many buildings reminiscent of picture-perfect gingerbread houses. Peppered by ancient cobblestone streets, Strasbourg is home to many distinct neighbourhoods, many of which are still home to original medieval buildings. Don’t miss a trip to the Strasbourg Cathedral and learn more about the unique region of Alsace at the Alsatian Museum. 

Strasbourg also has a broad range of great cafes, bistros, bars, and shops, as well as many large parks and open spaces to enjoy in the warmer months. Of course, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the annual Strasbourg Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik), which is held in front of Strasbourg Cathedral throughout November and December. European Christmas markets are a magical experience, and Strasbourg has one of the best in Europe! 

Learn more about Strasbourg: https://www.visit.alsace/strasbourg/

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6. Étretat 

Where it is: Normandy, Northern France. 

Distance from Paris to Étretat: 3 hour drive / 4.5 hour train. 

A local food to try in Étretat: Sardine rillettes (or anything with local seafood!)

You may not have heard of Étretat, so we are pleased to pass on this hidden French gem to you. The ideal weekend trip from Paris, Étretat is a small town located on the the Normandy coast and is known for its towering white cliffs that overlook the towns pebble beaches. This stretch of coastline is a joy to wander along, thanks in part to its striking cliffs and coastal rock formations, the towering L’Aiguille being the most famous.

Étretat was renowned for once being a haven for French artists like Monet, who found inspiration through its uniquely beautiful landscape. In town, there’s lots to fill a weekend, including a trip to the breathtaking Jardins d’Étretat, the historic clifftop chapel and the charming cafes and restaurants serving up local cuisine (local seafood and Camembert cheese from Normandy are a must!) 

Étretat is a great spot to explore the greater Normandy region from. Less than an hour away you’ll find the nearby port city of Le Havre, located where the Seine meets the English Channel, as well as Honfleur, another historic harbourside artist magnet. Just 90 minutes away is Caen, an ancient city teeming with Romanesque architecture, and the fascinating island locale of Mont Saint-Michel is less than two hours by car. 

Learn more about Normandy: https://normandie-tourisme.fr

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7. Marseille 

Where it is: Provence, Southern France. 

Distance from Paris to Marseille: 8 hours drive / 3.5 hour train / 1.5 hour flight. 

A quintessential Marseille meal: Bouillabaisse.

If you’re driving down, Marseille may be a little far for a quick weekend trip from Paris, but it’s a trip you shouldn’t overlook for a slightly longer vacation. Marseille is an important port city located on France’s most southern coastline, right the Mediterranean Sea. Home to almost one million residents, Marseille is France’s most populous city behind Paris, and the city itself has so much to see and do. Marseille is actually France’s oldest city and dates back over 2500 years. The multicultural city was central to trade and remains so, linking France with Africa and beyond.

Fill your days with visits to the Marseille Cathedral, the Old Port with its variety of waterfront restaurants and large harbour, the historic Hôtel de Ville, the endless museums across the city (there’s a lot!), the local beaches or by exploring Marseille’s national parks like Calanques National Park. And that’s just the beginning. 

Marseille doesn’t have the reputation for sophistication and elegance that Paris or Nice do, but it is rich in culture and authentic. Marseille is also a great place to escape Paris’ often harsh winter, thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate. Don’t forget to indulge in the local seafood here! The area is renowned for it and even Anthony Bourdain fell in love with it during his time here! 

Learn more about Marseille: https://www.marseille-tourisme.com

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8. Avignon 

Where it is: Provence, Southeastern France.

Distance from Paris to Avignon: 7 hour drive, 3 hour train / 1.5 hour flight (to Marseille – 65km away). 

A local food to try in Avignon: Pot-au-feu.

A standout destination in the heart of the French region of Provence, the city of Avignon promises an unforgettable experience that is quintessentially French. Dating back over one thousand years and perched on the Rhône, Avignon is a tranquil, picturesque city that is easily walkable and especially enjoyable when visited during spring and summer.

Visit the extraordinary Pope’s Palace, one of France’s most visited landmarks and once the seat of France’s Catholic popes, explore the many local museums, shop up a storm in town followed by a classic Provençal meal, people watch and sip a latte in one of the many public squares or stroll through one of the many local gardens, like the stunning Jardin des Doms. 

Provence is famous for its dreamy lavender fields, and Avignon is a great base to experience these in all their glory during the summer months. Sault is one such photogenic lavender field hotspot, and it is around an hour from Avignon. The towns of Luberon and Valensole are both slightly further afield. 

Learn more about Avignon: https://www.avignon-et-provence.com/tourism-provence/avignon

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9. Nantes

Where it is: Brittany, Western France.

Distance from Paris to Nantes: 4 hour drive / 2 hour train / 1 hour flight. 

Try this classic Nantes food: Gâteau Nantais. 

Located in France’s Brittany region and nestled on the Loire River, Nantes is often overlooked as a weekend trip from Paris for other more well known locations. But this city of 300,000 has really come into its own, and thankfully, many visitors are discovering all that there is to love about it.

Nantes has a rich history, and the city’s medieval quarter has a surprise around every corner, including the awe-inspiring Château des ducs de Bretagne, once home to Brittany’s dukes. Nantes is the perfect blend of antiquity and modernity, where hip cafes and bars dot its ancient cobblestone streets and contemporary landmarks share space with historical monuments of importance. Nantes also has a large variety of public parks and gardens, is a great shopping hotspot and has a youthful, vibrant atmosphere thanks to its significance as a university city.

Muscadet wines are produced in the region surrounding Nantes, and the region boasts vineyards that give those in Bordeaux a run for their money. All in all, Nantes is finally getting the recognition it deserves and makes for a one-of-a-kind weekend trip from Paris.

Learn more about Nantes: https://www.brittanytourism.com/destinations/the-10-destinations/nantes/

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10. Chantilly 

Where it is: Hauts-de-France, Northern France. 

Distance from Paris to Chantilly: 1 hour drive / 25 minute train. 

Food to order in Chantilly: Any pastry or cake with Chantilly cream! 

Chantilly may have a worldwide reputation for its lace, porcelain and cream, but a weekend trip from Paris here is too easy not to do! Just an hours drive from Paris, or an even faster train ride, the small town of Chantilly is nestled within the lush Chantilly Forest, a green wonderland during the warmer months in France. With the Oise River meandering by, Chantilly is the place to truly unwind from the hectic streets of Paris. But Chantilly doesn’t just offer a beautiful natural landscape.

The Château de Chantilly is the centrepiece of the town, a centuries-old luxurious chateau you can visit that also houses a large collection of historic art. There’s also the The Great Stables, which are a global horse racing location, and horse shows are regularly staged here. Next door is the Church of Notre-Dame of Chantilly. 

Chantilly is known for Chantilly lace, and you can learn about the history of the towns lacemaking at Musée de la Dentelle. Chantilly cream is also world renowned, and you can savour this whipped cream in pastries, cakes and hot chocolate right where it was invented at many eateries across Chantilly. This little town has produced so much that the world now knows it for! 

Learn more about Chantilly: https://www.chantilly-senlis-tourisme.com/

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11. Chamonix 

Where it is: French Alps, Eastern France. 

Distance from Paris to Chamonix: 6 hour drive / 6 hour train / 1 hour flight.  

A local food from Chamonix: Fondue. 

Five million visitors flock to the French alpine resort town of Chamonix each year. Many visit in the winter for some of the best powder in Europe, others in summer to escape the low-lying heat and to hike in one of the most beautiful locations in France. 

Officially named Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the village of Chamonix is nestled in France’s alpine region, at the base of Mont Blanc – Europe’s highest peak. No matter what season you visit in, there’s lots to do in Chamonix. In winter, the skiing here is world renowned and the town’s cable cars service the local peaks and glaciers. In fact, the first ever Winter Olympics were held here in 1924. In summer, the rolling green hills and mountains of this region are simply spectacular, and Lac Blanc glitters in the sun. Chamonix holds a range of festivals year-round, and there’s always something happening here. 

There’s no shortage of places to eat and drink in Chamonix, as well as fun nightlife. The resort has a wide range of accommodation offerings, from luxury chalets to rustic log cabins. The popular Italian ski resort of Courmayeur is just over the border, a short drive away. 

Learn more about Chamonix: https://chamonix.com

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12. Monaco 

Where it is: French Riviera, Southeastern France.  

Distance from Paris to Monaco: 9.5 hour drive / 6.5 hour train / 1.5 hour flight.  

Try Monaco’s national food: Barbajuan (and Champagne!)

If you want to see how the other half live, a trip to Monaco is a popular long weekend trip from Paris. The independent principality is located on the French Riviera, a stone’s throw from the Italian border. Monaco, and its capital Monte Carlo, are all about luxury and sophistication, and the French enclave boasts a zero poverty rate and zero income tax. This has made it a magnet for the rich and famous for decades. As a result, there’s no shortage of yachts in the marina or high-end hotels and resorts to stay at. 

There’s also lots to see in Monaco. You can tour Monaco Palace, home to the Grimaldi dynasty which actress Grace Kelly once famously married into. Try your luck at the exclusive Monte Carlo Casino, visit Monaco Cathedral, see a show at the Opera de Monte Carlo, wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town or have a dip at Larvotto Beach, the only public beach in Monaco. If you visit in May, this is when the iconic Monaco Grand Prix is held. 

There’s also a wide range of beautiful gardens, interesting museums, fashionable stores and stylish restaurants and bars across Monaco. Nice on the French Riviera is just 30 minutes from Monaco, so it’s well worth including both on your long weekend trip from Paris!  

Learn more about Monaco: https://www.visitmonaco.com

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Have you visited any of these locations that are ideal for a weekend trip from Paris?

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